Living Independently: Coming Into Your Own

Having privacy and the freedom to live the way you want is a fundamental part of life. Autonomy is incredibly important and living independently is a goal for many people with a disability. The first step towards independence can open the door to so much more.

Support services and assistive technology (AT) have come a huge way and can be harnessed to your advantage if you’re ready to move into a place of your own.

Accessible Housing

It can be challenging to find the right home if you are living with a disability. The National Insurance Disability Scheme (NDIS) is designed to help people reach their goals and funding may be available to undertake alterations if you are buying or renting.

The department of Family & Community Services (FACS) in NSW is also committed to modifying homes for tenants that require more accessible housing options. If your current residence doesn’t suit your mobility and accessibility needs, considering contacting the department of housing to discuss options on how to increase accessibility and if there are any accessible rental properties in your local area. Note that relocation is a long process with an extensive wait list.

One of the exciting facets of ‘Smart Technology’ is that it is improving the lives of people with a disability, with technology that includes opening the door with an iPad. Homes that are connected to devices can considerably ease the way to independence.

Cooking is a tactile experience that is a hobby for many of us. With some creative solutions, it can become an enjoyable part of your daily experience.

Shopping has never been easier with the advent of online shopping and now can provide an accessible option for those who are on the go. This service is widely available through metropolitan Australia, and is becoming increasingly available in regional areas where major Australian supermarkets such as Woolworths and Coles are based.

Plan ahead – With careful planning, preparation and tools cooking can be a sensory so streamline your kitchen with the essentials to make it easier to move.

Lowered counters can make a kitchen more accessible for those with a culinary passion that utilise a wheelchair. Touch and pressure sensitive drawers are also a great option for those who may find it difficult to manipulate handles.

There’s also a big range of assistive devices on the market. A Safe Slice Knife Guard is a great kitchen tool that is modified for those who have difficulty with fine motor skills and give added leverage when chopping.

Measuring cups that verbally describe volume are another wonderful accessible kitchen aid, as well as black and white cutting boards that make food easier to see when slicing and dicing .